Vincent de Paul

Vincent de Paul was born on April 24, 1581, in the village of Pouy in Gascony, France, to a poor farming family. Gifted and hardworking, he studied for the priesthood and was ordained in 1600, later continuing his formation in theology and canon law. After years of searching and struggle—including a period of captivity in North Africa from which he returned to France in 1607—Vincent’s heart was gradually converted from ambition to compassion. Serving in parishes and as chaplain to the Gondi family, he was awakened to the spiritual and material misery of rural people and began organizing missions for the poor. Appointed chaplain to the galleys, he also labored for imprisoned galley slaves. He co-founded the Congregation of the Mission (the Vincentians), dedicated to evangelizing neglected villages, renewing the clergy through retreats, and strengthening seminary education. With Saint Louise de Marillac, he founded the Daughters of Charity, bringing practical mercy to the sick and destitute. Renowned for humility and generosity, he is honored as a patron of works of charity and is associated with places such as San Vicente de Paúl Nursing Home, San Vicente del Condado, and Sangalhos. His feast day is September 27.